Chapter 2 : The Forgotten Birthday
The morning air hung heavy, a dampness clinging to the mountain cabin. Ciro stirred, a faint hope flickering in his chest. Today was his birthday. But as he glanced at his mother, her brow furrowed with worry, he knew he couldn't burden her. "What happened? Are you sick or something?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.
Ciro forced a smile. "No, Mom, I'm fine." He couldn't add to her worries. Being a single mother, she worked tirelessly to provide for him, their isolated life a testament to her strength. He knew the lines etched around her eyes were earned through sacrifice.
"Okay," she said, a hint of doubt in her voice. "Let's get ready. Come to the dining table." She left the room, her footsteps echoing in the quiet cabin.
A pang of sadness pierced Ciro. Had she forgotten? He knew she was busy, but a simple "happy birthday" would have meant the world. Living in their secluded mountain home, she was his only family, his only friend. He'd never seen another human, only the towering peaks and whispering pines. ⛰️
"Let it go," he murmured to himself, descending the creaking stairs. But a twist of anxiety tightened in his stomach. What if she really forgot? What if… He couldn't finish the thought. Each step amplified his fear. His legs trembled, frozen on the last step.
"Hurry up, boy! Hurry up!" her voice called from the kitchen.
Taking a deep breath, he forced himself forward. He entered the kitchen, his heart pounding. And then, he stopped.
A small, vibrant party had been set up. A handmade cake, adorned with candles, sat in the center of the table. Streamers and colorful decorations transformed their humble kitchen into a celebration. 🎉 Ciro was stunned. He'd never imagined his mother would do this, especially given their solitary life.
Tears welled up in his eyes. He rushed to her, wrapping his arms around her in a fierce hug. His face shone with pure joy. "This is the best birthday ever!" he whispered.
They sat at the table, and he blew out the candles, making a silent wish. His mother smiled. "Make a wish before cutting the cake, Ciro."
He wished for friends. They cut the yellow fruit cake, baked with love, and shared the first slices.
"What did you wish for, Ciro?" she asked.
"Friends," he admitted.
Her smile softened. "I know, my dear. You're alone here in the mountains." She looked at him with a mixture of pride and regret. "I worry that you've grown up too quickly, that I've robbed you of a childhood. I'm sorry you've never had friends."
"But that's going to change," she declared, her eyes sparkling. "We're moving to the city. Pack your things."
Chapter 2: A New World
Ciro's heart leaped. He raced up the stairs, a whirlwind of excitement. As he packed, a sudden realization struck him. "Oops! I forgot to tell you about this world!" He bowed apologetically.
"Well, then," he began, "this world is a lot like Earth. Same technology, same continents, different countries, different languages. Peaceful lives, no wars. Just… different." 🌍
"Hurry up, son! We'll be late!" his mother called.
"Coming, Mom!"
"You've packed a lot," she observed, looking at his overflowing bag. "Do you really need all this?"
"Yes, Mom! These things are precious to me."
"Why?"
"Because you gave them to me."
She hugged him tightly, tears streaming down her face. "Thank you for the best memories, Ciro. You've filled my life with happiness."
"Don't cry, Mom," he said, wiping her tears. "Let's go."
They climbed into their car, and his mother started the engine. As they drove, Ciro gazed out the window, a mix of excitement and anticipation swirling within him. This was more than just a trip; it was a new beginning. 🚗
The car entered a bustling town, and his mother took a route he didn't recognize. "Where are we going, Mom? Why the city?"
"You're twelve now, Ciro. It's time for you to go to school, to learn and live your life. I want you to grow into a man of integrity, someone who inspires others, protects them, and understands responsibility."
"I will, Mom," he promised. "I'll make you proud."
They stopped in front of a beautiful house. "This is our new home," she announced.
"Really? This is our house?" Ciro exclaimed, his eyes wide with wonder. 🏠
The day passed quickly. Ciro's excitement grew as he thought about his first day of school. He'd never been around children his age.
Chapter 3: First Day Jitters
"Wake up, Ciro," his mother gently called.
He came bounding down the stairs, trying to hide his exhaustion. He'd spent the night on his phone, too excited to sleep. 📱 His mother chuckled, seeing through his facade.
"You don't have to hide it," she said, hugging him. "Enjoy your childhood while you can."
They ate breakfast, and she drove him to school. It was opening day, and the schoolyard buzzed with children. Ciro felt a wave of nervousness. He didn't know how to talk to them.
His mother hugged him at the door. "I'm sorry, Ciro, that you had to grow up so fast. But from now on, focus on your school life. I'll take care of everything else. Have fun."
"Mom," he whispered, "I'm lucky to have you. You're everything to me. I love you."
Tears welled in her eyes. "I love you too, Ciro."
He watched her go, then turned to face the crowd of children. "This is it," he thought. "The start of my new life." He took a deep breath, ready to step into the unknown. 👦